To pump fluid into sample containers, a distributor arm of a sample collector is calibrated as to position in a computer memory and is moved from position to position over different containers while a counter in computer memory keeps track of its position. When the distributor arm is over the designated container, samples are pumped into the container. To pump the fluid into the container, the rollers of a peristaltic pump are supported to prevent the rollers from compressing the tube more than the thickness of the walls of the tube. A tube holder rotates along with the roller assembly of the peristaltic pump and keeps the tube in line with the rollers.
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June 28, 1999
March 12, 2002
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